There’s something truly special about a homemade German Chocolate Cake. With its luscious layers of coconut and pecan frosting paired with rich chocolate frosting, this cake is a showstopper at any celebration. Growing up in a family of seven, this cake was our go-to choice for birthdays, and it never failed to delight. Being a twin was an added bonus because my mom would make both my favorite carrot cake and this decadent German Chocolate Cake for my sister. A slice of each was the perfect birthday treat!
The name “German Chocolate Cake” might be a bit misleading, as it’s not actually a German dessert. Traditionally, the cake features a lighter color with a hint of chocolate, topped with a generous coconut and pecan glaze. In our family, we embraced a slightly different version: a chocolate cake covered in chocolate frosting with coconut frosting nestled between the layers and on top. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This German Chocolate Cake is a feast for the senses. Not only is it visually stunning, but the combination of textures and flavors—from the rich chocolate layers to the sweet coconut and nutty pecans—creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 2 9-inch square pans or 3 8-inch round pans
- Large mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 4 ounces of sweet German baking chocolate
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 egg whites, beaten until stiff
Coconut and Pecan Frosting:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup evaporated milk (12 oz. can)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease your baking pans.
- Pour the boiling water over the chocolate, stirring until melted, and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, mix sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then add the chocolate and vanilla.
- Gradually beat in the flour, baking soda, and salt, alternating with buttermilk. Stir until smooth, then fold in the beaten egg whites.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans. Bake for 40-45 minutes if using square pans or 35-40 minutes for round pans. Use a toothpick to check for doneness. Cool on a rack before frosting.
- For the Coconut-Pecan Glaze, combine sugar, butter, milk, vanilla, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until thickened, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in coconut and pecans, and let it cool until spreadable. Frost the cake once both the cake and glaze have cooled.
Tips for Success
Ensure the chocolate is fully melted and cooled before adding it to the batter to avoid curdling. Be gentle when folding in the egg whites to maintain the cake’s light texture. Let the cake cool completely before applying the frosting for a smooth finish.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a twist, try adding a layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers for a sweet and tangy contrast. If you’re short on time, use a store-bought chocolate cake mix and focus on making the homemade coconut-pecan frosting.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 450, Fat: 25g, Carbohydrates: 55g, Protein: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them. Frost the cake after it has thawed for best results. - What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. - Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans.
Conclusion
I hope you’re inspired to try this delightful German Chocolate Cake recipe! It’s a true classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it is in mine. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and any delicious variations you create!